To analyze the expression \(4x^2 - 2x + 14x^2 - 2x + 1\), let's simplify it and answer the questions step by step.
-
Simplify the Expression: Combine like terms: \[ 4x^2 + 14x^2 - 2x - 2x + 1 = (4x^2 + 14x^2) + (-2x - 2x) + 1 = 18x^2 - 4x + 1 \]
-
Counting the Terms: The simplified expression is \(18x^2 - 4x + 1\). This polynomial has three distinct terms: \(18x^2\), \(-4x\), and \(1\). Therefore, the number of terms is 3.
-
Identifying the Leading Coefficient: The leading term of a polynomial is the term with the highest degree. In this case, the leading term is \(18x^2\). The coefficient in this term is \(18\), so the leading coefficient is 18.
Summary Answers:
- How many terms are there?: 3
- What is the leading coefficient of the first term?: 18